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Traveling With an Airline Approved Electric Wheelchair

There are many things you should consider when traveling with powered chairs. The staff at the airport and on the plane will ask you many questions regarding the dimensions of your chair and battery type as well as how to handle it.

Make sure you have these details ready before you go to the airport. Make sure that your wheelchair is equipped with "air-safe" batteries that comply with the air travel regulations.

What is an airline approved electric wheelchair?

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are able to be safely transported and stored on planes. The FAA can approve them for air travel, and they can be kept under the plane as checked baggage. They'll also be able to navigate on rough surfaces such as gravel, deceleration stripes, bricks or muddy roads. They could also be fitted with a drive system that is patent-pending that permits them to maneuver into tight spaces or elevators.

The airline will assist you with your wheelchair or mobility scooter from the ticketing counter to the boarding gates. However, it is essential to contact them ahead of time to make sure they are aware of your requirements and confirm that they can meet those requirements. Certain airlines require you to be at least one hour prior to the departure time you have scheduled, which is important during peak travel times.





Southwest Airlines has a compartment in their cabins for the storage of one mobility device or wheelchair. The space is not large enough, and it's first come first served. Federal regulations also require that all batteries added to the system be inspected by a wheelchair or scooter. They must be shut off unless they are designed to prevent accidental activation.

United Airlines requires 48-hour notice before taking an electric scooter or wheelchair aboard their flights. They also require that you check in an hour before your flight, to ensure proper handling of your equipment. Additionally, they request to complete their Mobility Aid Information form to give airport personnel assembly and disassembly instructions as well as other useful information regarding your mobility chair or power scooter.

Safety

Electric wheelchairs that have been approved by airlines are designed to offer an efficient and safe method of travel. These chairs are designed to fold and conform to airline standards regarding battery size, handling, and storage. Contact the Special Assistance department of your chosen airline in advance to discuss their specific guidelines for powered mobility equipment. These representatives can assist you in planning your travel itinerary and provide you with the most current details regarding battery requirements. electric wheelchairs lightweight can also provide assembly and disassembly instructions. Certain airlines require you to remove the battery from your chair to ensure safety. You can then put it in a bag for carry-on. This is to ensure that the terminals are not exposed and the battery is safely stowed in a upright position.

Depending on the airline you travel with depending on the airline you use, you may be required to label your wheelchair. This will include your name, address, your telephone number, and the wheelchair model. This will allow airline and airport personnel quickly and precisely identify the equipment if it gets lost or damaged during your trip. You may want to buy aftermarket slings, such as the CARES Harness or ADAPTS Sling, which will assist you in staying in your chair while you travel with airport personnel and airline personnel.

You should arrive at the airport 2 hours before your scheduled departure time to ensure that your equipment is in good stowage. Being earlier than that is even better if possible particularly during peak holiday periods or during rush hour. This lets you check in earlier and gives plenty of time for the airline representative to assist you in stowing your chair.

Take a photo of your wheelchair prior to travel. This serves as proof if your device is damaged on the flight. This will help you in obtaining compensation for the damages from the airline. You should also consider bringing a seat cushion with you to ensure that your flight is as relaxing as possible for you. Seat cushions are particularly important when you travel for more than an hour. They can reduce the pressure on your skin making it less prone to soreness.

Check-In

If you are traveling with an airline approved electric wheelchair, the process of getting on a plane could be an overwhelming experience. However, with proper preparation and adherence to rules and regulations, air travel with your power chair is attainable.

Before booking your flight, speak to an airline representative to find out more about their policies and procedures. They'll be able to guide you in the right direction, no matter if you prefer to make your chair at the ticket counter or at the gate. In either case, arriving 1 hour prior to your flight is suggested. This allows the airline to inspect your equipment and ensure that it is properly stowed for your journey.

Depending on your power chair It could be necessary for you to disassemble it prior to transportation. In this situation, it's helpful to have instructions for assembly and disassembly the go to help airline personnel who will handle your chair. It is also an excellent idea to attach any safety and maintenance documents to your chair, like the owner's manual and warranty information. You should also take off any removable items and ensure that all controls work before you leave for the airport.

When you arrive at an airport, your electric chair will be placed in the cargo hold and then stowed. The airlines are not allowed to charging you a fee to stow assistive devices, such as power wheelchairs. This is an excellent benefit for those with disabilities since it allows them to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Once the plane is in the air in the air, a representative from the airline will be in a position to transfer you from your powered wheelchair to a wheelchair that is able to fit in the aisle of the aircraft. You can then disembark and your powered wheelchair is returned to you at the closest possible location to the door of the aircraft, either at the jetbridge or at the gate.

It can be a bit daunting to travel in an electric chair, but with right planning and following the rules you can have fun exploring new destinations. The most important thing to keep in mind is that if you're not comfortable in your chair, you will not be able to fully enjoy the freedom that traveling offers.

Check-Out

Airplanes can be crowded, and this can be stressful for people who suffer from mobility problems. If you have an electric or wheelchair, it can make your travel experience more enjoyable. However, it's essential to follow the airline's policies regarding bringing your chair and storing it on the plane. If you're traveling with a power chair, make sure to contact your airline before your trip to inquire about their policies and get any questions answered.

Most airlines allow you to bring an electric wheelchair on your flight as you've prepared it for travel. Certain airlines will require you to discharge the batteries prior to boarding, and others will require a physician's letter to allow you to travel with your power wheelchair. Some airlines will also require you to disassemble the battery-powered portion of your chair and then place it inside a protective case.

When you arrive at the airport, be sure to arrive at least two hours prior to your scheduled departure time to ensure that your airline has enough time to prepare your wheelchair for the flight. Bring any documents you require to the airport, including your manual or any instructions on the assembly or disassembly for your mobility aid. This will speed up the check-in process and help avoid confusion about your airline's policies regarding wheelchairs.

When you arrive at the airline's ticket counter or at the gate, be certain to communicate clearly your mobility requirements. Provide the type of wheelchair you have and any necessary accessories like seat cushions or sideguards. Ask the airline if they will be examining your wheelchair for stowage or the possibility of transferring it to the plane using an adapted cart. If you're moving from your electric wheelchair to the plane, book an direct flight to cut down on the number times your equipment is moved between locations.

Once your wheelchair has been loaded onto the plane, it's stored in the cargo compartment along with other luggage that is checked. The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibits airlines from charging extra for storing a wheelchair or scooter. Take a photograph of your equipment if it arrives damaged. Inform the airline immediately.